What is a TRV (Visa Sticker)?
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly referred to as a “visa sticker”, is a physical counterfoil placed in the passport of individuals from visa-required countries. It is required to enter or re-enter Canada, regardless of whether the individual holds a valid study permit or work permit. While a permit allows you to study or work in Canada, the TRV is the document that allows you to enter the country.
Do You Need a TRV to Enter Canada?
You need a valid TRV (sticker in your passport) if you are from a visa-required country and wish to:
● Enter Canada for the first time with a study or work permit
● Leave Canada temporarily and return while your permit is still valid
You do not need a TRV if you are from a visa-exempt country; in that case, you may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
When Do Students & Workers Need a Visa Sticker?
You should apply for a TRV if:
● You are issued a new study or work permit inside Canada and plan to travel internationally
● Your previous TRV has expired, and you plan to re-enter Canada
● You initially entered Canada without needing a TRV but now plan to visit a country from which you will return to Canada by air or land
Note: You cannot apply for a TRV at a Canadian port of entry. You must have it before you travel back to Canada.
How to Apply for a TRV from Inside Canada ?
If you are already in Canada on a valid permit and need a TRV, you can apply online through your IRCC account. The process includes:
- Completing application forms (IMM 5257)
- Uploading your current study/work permit and passport
- Providing a digital photo and supporting documents
- Paying the applicable visa fees
- Mailing your passport to the visa office after receiving a passport request
Once approved, your passport will be returned with the TRV sticker affixed.
Key Things to Remember
- A valid study or work permit is not a travel document. It does not allow re-entry.
- The TRV is needed every time you enter Canada, unless you are returning directly from the U.S. or Saint-Pierre and Miquelon and still have valid status.
- Processing times for TRVs vary, so apply well in advance of travel.
- You must maintain your legal status in Canada to be eligible for a TRV.
- The TRV validity may not always match the expiry of your study/work permit. Always check both before travel.
What is a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa?
Eligible Family Members
• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Under certain conditions: siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren
What is a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa?
Eligible Family Members
• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Under certain conditions: siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren
What is a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa?
Eligible Family Members
• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Under certain conditions: siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren
What is a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa?
Eligible Family Members
• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Under certain conditions: siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren
What is a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa?
Eligible Family Members
• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Under certain conditions: siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren
What is a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa?
Eligible Family Members
• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Under certain conditions: siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren
Work or Study in Canada and Need a Visa Sticker?
We assist international students and foreign workers with their TRV applications to ensure smooth re-entry into Canada. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your TRV, our RCIC-led team can help you avoid delays and refusals.